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1 of 5 Norm Plate
Shady patio
A sycamore tree is the star of this yard. Read on to see how permeable paving, a rustic seat wall, and other details complement and celebrate the shady patio.
2 of 5 Norm Plate
Rustic seat wall
A 20-inch-high wall defines the patio and provides extra seating. Faced with ledgestone from Amador County, it echoes the mottled hues of the sycamore tree's bark.
3 of 5 Norm Plate
Permeable paving
Pacific Gold gravel paves the patio, letting rainwater through to tree roots and creating visual serenity against the distant grasses and grapevines.
4 of 5 Norm Plate
Leafy cover
Green Loropetalum chinense grows along the wall's rugged exterior, while Boston ivy (which turns reddish in fall) cloaks the stones.
5 of 5
Border in pots
Each of four containers holds a single 'Little Gem' magnolia about 12 feet tall, shading the adjacent master bedroom.
Design Diana Stratton, Diana Stratton Design, Healdsburg (707/433-2582)